Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Massachusetts

The KTGF Fellowship Programs, funded by the Klingenstein Third Generation Foundation, offer $100,000 over two years to support post-doctoral and junior faculty research on ADHD and depression in children, particularly from low-income and under-resourced backgrounds. This initiative aims to foster promising early-career scientists while producing impactful research that benefits affected children and families. Applications are accepted from September 1 to December 15, with specific eligibility criteria outlined for candidates.

This NOFO invites applications for innovative research aimed at developing and implementing interventions to prevent and treat substance use disorders (SUDs) and overdose. It encourages studies that can rapidly advance candidate solutions towards regulatory approval or clinical use, while also addressing co-morbid SUDs. The initiative supports a wide range of research including basic, clinical, translational, and implementation strategies to tackle drug misuse and related health issues, such as HIV/AIDS.

Biogen General Grants

Funding to support a project or program that does not fit any of the other defined grant categories.

The Oak Foundation's Housing and Homelessness Grant Program aims to reduce homelessness and improve housing conditions by supporting organizations that empower renters and advocate for equitable housing. The program focuses on enhancing renter rights, increasing the availability of affordable homes, and preventing homelessness through community-driven strategies. By addressing structural issues such as poverty and discrimination, the foundation seeks to create lasting change in housing accessibility for marginalized populations in both the US and UK.

The Mumford & Keller Grant and Scholarship Program, initiated by Indiana Audubon in 2010, offers financial support for projects focusing on natural resources and Indiana's birdlife. With grants ranging from $500 to $5,000, it aims to promote conservation, research, and education. Priority is given to initiatives targeting key species and habitats within Indiana. This program honors the legacy of Russell Mumford and Charles Keller, enhancing bird conservation efforts for future generations.

The Ornis Birding x Lost Birds Expedition Grant aims to inspire skilled young birders, aged 18-30, to explore remote regions and rediscover species that have evaded scientific detection for over a decade. Funded by Ornis Birding Expeditions, this grant offers up to $5,000 for innovative expeditions, encouraging participants to submit detailed observations and engage with local communities. The initiative seeks to fill critical gaps in ornithological knowledge while promoting conservation and ecotourism.

Greater Toledo Community Foundation

Greater Toledo Community Foundation transforms generosity into lasting impact. With over $510 million in assets across 1,000+ funds, we've granted more than $370 million to strengthen education, health, arts, and social services throughout our region.

We connect donors with causes they care about while bringing together leaders, organizations, and resources to tackle our community's biggest challenges. What began with Walter E. Terhune's vision in the 1920s continues today as we help individuals, families, and businesses create positive change that will benefit our region for generations.

Ottawa County Community Foundation Grants

The Ottawa County Community Foundation, Inc. (OCCF) is a public charitable organization created by the citizens of Ottawa County to enrich the quality of life for individuals and families in Ottawa County. Grants from unrestricted funds support a variety of programs in the fields of education, health and social services, economic development, natural resources and the arts.

The Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative supports outdoor enthusiasts and promotes responsible use of off-highway vehicles (OHVs). Its mission includes educating the public on land use and wildlife conservation while protecting access to public lands. Applications are accepted quarterly from nonprofit organizations and community groups focused on land stewardship and access improvements, ensuring a safe and sustainable outdoor experience for all.

The Goldberg, Joseph and Ruth Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, aims to support students pursuing medical professions, such as nursing, dental, and physical therapy. Established in 1987, the Foundation provides over $55,000 annually in scholarships to Beatrice High School seniors. Eligible applicants must be in the top quarter of their class and complete the application independently. This scholarship is part of the Foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in the Beatrice School District.

The FY26 Bureau of Land Management Wildlife Resource Management Program aims to enhance wildlife resource management on public lands across the nation. With a focus on habitat protection, species reintroduction, and collaborative conservation efforts, the program addresses critical ecological needs while supporting the social and economic well-being of communities. Key initiatives include habitat treatments, monitoring efforts, and partnerships with state agencies to ensure effective management and recovery of priority wildlife species.

The DFO Research, Education, and Conservation Grant supports projects focused on birds and their habitats, prioritizing initiatives in the Denver area and Colorado's Front Range. Established in 1994, the fund encourages research, education, and conservation efforts with grants typically under $2,000. Recent funded projects include studies on owl habitats and educational programs for young birders. The fund aims to advance knowledge and appreciation of avian species through targeted financial support.

The BTCF: Simple Gifts Fund Grant supports young artists aged 13-19 in the Berkshire Taconic region, providing financial assistance for summer enrichment programs in the arts. Established in 1998 in memory of folk singer Bill Crofut, the fund aims to empower youth through small grants that can cover costs for tuition, art supplies, or living expenses. The grant fosters creativity and personal growth, ensuring that young individuals have opportunities to pursue their passions.

The NIDDK High Risk Multi-Center Clinical Study Cooperative Agreement (U01 Clinical Trial Not Allowed) invites proposals for high-risk, multi-center observational studies on diseases relevant to NIDDK's mission. Applicants are encouraged to consult with NIDDK staff and must complete planning activities before submission. Key deadlines for applications span from February 2025 to October 2026, with optional Letters of Intent due 30 days prior to full proposals.

The FY26 Bureau of Land Management Invasive and Noxious Plant Management program focuses on preventing and controlling invasive species that threaten public lands and native plant communities. These invasive plants impose significant economic burdens and disrupt ecosystems. The program aims to enhance detection, rapid response, and education on invasive species, while also promoting rehabilitation efforts and biological control to protect valuable resources on public lands.

The FY26 Bureau of Land Management Forest and Woodlands Resource Management program aims to enhance forest health and promote sustainable management practices. It supports initiatives under Executive Order 14225 and The One Big Beautiful Bill, focusing on fire resiliency, habitat conservation, and recovery from pests and diseases. Activities may include tree planting, thinning, and vegetation control, alongside necessary planning and analysis for compliance with environmental regulations.

The Mayer and Morris Kaplan Foundation Environment Grant aims to support initiatives that combat climate change, prioritizing efforts to reduce fossil fuel consumption and enhance climate education for young adults. The foundation emphasizes innovative solutions and partnerships to address both immediate and long-term environmental challenges. Areas of focus include climate and clean energy policy, as well as providing scientifically accurate climate change education. By leveraging data and research, the foundation seeks to empower organizations dedicated to creating impactful change.

About Pfizer External Research & Grants

Pfizer External Research & Grants (ER&G) supports independent research, education, and QI initiatives to improve patient outcomes in areas of unmet need. Competitive grants are awarded through transparent RFPs reviewed by independent expert panels.

About ASCP

American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is the world’s largest professional membership organization for pathologists and laboratory professionals, with more than 100,000 members. ASCP provides excellence in education, certification, and advocacy on behalf of patients and the laboratory workforce. With a portfolio of more than 900 educational activities, ASCP is the worldwide leader in providing CME/CMLE credit for the entire laboratory team.

Quality Improvement in Molecular Testing Pathways for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer (mCRC)

The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), in collaboration with Pfizer Inc. and with participation from the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO, invites proposals for pathology-centric Quality Improvement (QI) initiatives aimed at optimizing molecular testing pathways in the management of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). This grant opportunity seeks to fund sustainable projects that improve biomarker testing practices, strengthen targeted therapy selection, and support care teams in implementing patient-centered protocols. 

The overarching goal of this program is to advance diagnostic excellence and improve treatment decision-making for patients with mCRC.

The Blake-Nuttall Fund Grants, offered by the Nuttall Ornithological Club Inc, support vital ornithological research, conservation, and education efforts focused on the birds of New England and the Northeast. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, while applications from individuals or private foundations are not considered. This initiative aims to foster a deeper understanding and protection of avian species in the region.

The Exploratory Clinical Trial Grants in Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (R61 Clinical Trial Required) aim to support clinical trials that can be completed within a limited timeframe. This funding opportunity encourages a variety of exploratory studies that align with the NIAMS mission, focusing on interventions such as drugs, biologics, devices, and various therapies. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization.

The NIAAA Integrative Neuroscience Initiative on Alcoholism (INIA) aims to renew support for two research consortia focusing on the biological mechanisms of excessive alcohol consumption and Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). By utilizing advanced technologies and fostering collaboration across multiple sites, this initiative seeks to standardize neurofunctional measures and enhance reproducibility in findings. Investigators are encouraged to prepare for future applications to this NOFO, which will utilize the U24 activity code.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Miller Family Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Michael K. Miller, who established the Miller Family Scholarship Fund of the Community Foundation for Mason County. This scholarship is presented to instrumentalists graduating from Ludington High School.

The Lazarus Family Scholarship in Bioethics and Humanities, offered by the AMA Foundation, supports students engaged in bioethics or the humanities, including art, music, and literature. This scholarship aims to foster the next generation of physician leaders by providing financial assistance to those who are committed to advancing health equity and community service. By recognizing diverse fields of study, it emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in medicine and the humanities.

This funding opportunity encourages applications for clinical observational studies focused on musculoskeletal, rheumatic, and skin diseases. It aims to gather essential data for designing future clinical studies, enhancing understanding of disease symptoms, progression, and patient outcomes. Observational studies supported by this initiative will contribute to the development of objective biomarkers and effective outcome measures. Applicants are invited to address key challenges in clinical project design, ensuring a robust foundation for subsequent clinical trials.

The Eastern Bank Foundation (EBF) is dedicated to empowering communities through its Neighborhood Donations initiative. By investing over $16 million in local organizations, EBF aims to support vital services and promote equity in Eastern Massachusetts, Southern New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. This program allows contributions to non-501(c)(3) organizations, reinforcing EBF's commitment to partnership and community-driven solutions, with donations typically ranging from $100 to $1,000.

The Arthritis National Research Foundation supports early career researchers in their quest to advance understanding and treatment of arthritis and related autoimmune diseases. Annually, the foundation grants 10 to 20 awards of $125,000 each for two years. Focus areas include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and more. Eligible investigators must hold an M.D. or Ph.D., be affiliated with a U.S. nonprofit research institution, and commit significant research time. Applications from prior grant recipients or those with certain NIH grants are ineligible.

Essex County Community Foundation

Since 1998, Essex County Community Foundation (ECCF) has proudly served the 34 unique cities and towns of Essex County. What started as an organization solely dedicated to strengthening our region’s nonprofits, has evolved – along with our communities – to an innovative and deeply connected Foundation inspiring system based social change.

Essex County Community Foundation inspires philanthropy that strengthens the communities of Essex County by managing charitable assets, strengthening and supporting nonprofits, and engaging in strategic community leadership initiatives. Our ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life in the 34 towns and cities of Essex County.

• We help donors of all sizes elevate their giving by managing charitable assets, sharing our local expertise and providing philanthropic guidance and education.
• Essex County’s 4000+ nonprofit organizations are doing smart, innovative work. We support their critical efforts with education, resources and funding.
• To solve our region’s most complex social issues, we invest and engage in community leadership initiatives driven by our Systems Philanthropy approach to change.

Essex County Veterans Fund 

The Essex County Veterans Fund aims to build community and increase access to critical support services for the 30,000 veterans that call Essex County home. Through grant-making and capacity-building, the initiative will leverage collective funding to make a significant difference in the quality of life for these local heroes and their families.

Our investments will be focused on multiple areas across two different rounds of grantmaking in 2026: Honoring Our Veterans and Serving Those Who Served Us. 

Grant Round 2 - Serving Those Who Served Us

Focus Areas

• Health and Wellness – strengthening the capacity of organizations to effectively provide mental health, disability, and other health services to veterans with diverse experiences and needs.

• Basic Needs and Economic Opportunity – increased access to food, clothing, supplies, and housing; career counseling and workforce training.

The Affirm Cares Employee Foundation Grant, established by Affirm, aims to support non-profit organizations making a significant impact in financial literacy, community enrichment, and technology education. Grants range from $1,000 to $10,000, focusing on sustainable initiatives that empower communities and alleviate housing insecurity. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) designated non-profits operating within the U.S. The foundation prioritizes measurable outcomes in its funding efforts, fostering civic engagement and vibrant communities.